University Leaders in NM Support Recruitment Plan

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Several university leaders in New Mexico are supporting Gov. Susana Martinez's plan to funnel $7.5 million into a state fund to recruit new college professors, scientists and researchers.

The Associated Press reports that Martinez's plan would allow the state's universities to compete for competitive grants, instead of being divvied up by colleges based on a set formula, as has been the practice in the past.

Funding decisions would likely be made by a committee of state officials, though details are still being worked out.

Martinez spokesman Enrique Knell says most of the recruited professors and researchers would be in key areas such as science, engineering, health and mathematics.

Any approved grants from the fund would require the receiving university to provide matching funds, which is also a current requirement.